FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem recently announced his intention to reconsider the strict rules regarding swearing. The organization threatened this year with hefty fines for drivers who use coarse language. In response to feedback, Sulayem now wants to backtrack on these strict regulations, but George Russell, chairman of the drivers’ union, is not convinced by the FIA president’s words.
During the winter break, the infamous Annex B was added to the FIA’s International Sporting Code. This document outlines the penalties drivers face when they use swear words or make other statements that could potentially harm the FIA’s moral standing or violate the organization’s standards. A first offense results in a fine of ten thousand euros; a second offense raises that amount to a whopping twenty thousand euros. A third offense risks a fine of thirty thousand euros, deduction of World Championship points, and even a suspension.
This week, Mohammed Ben Sulayem posted on Instagram that he – after receiving feedback – wants to reconsider this strict annex. George Russell, chairman of the GPDA, stated during a press conference in Miami that this is rather ‘meaningless’. The British Mercedes driver is still waiting for concrete action from the FIA. “We drivers have made it clear that we want changes,” he stated firmly. “Once these are implemented, we can comment. But for now, it is only being ‘considered’. That means absolutely nothing.”
Presidential Elections
Last year, the GPDA published an open letter to the FIA, criticizing the new rules. Sulayem responded in an interview at the time that it was ‘none of their business’. Insiders believe his current reconsideration of the regulations is related to the upcoming presidential elections. The Emirati may be trying to win over hearts and minds, and his Instagram post may not have been intended to lead to actual changes.
“It would be great if changes were made and the FIA at least wanted to listen to the drivers,” George Russell added. “I think it’s simply in the interest of the sport to ensure that we act sensibly in these situations. But as I said, I think we can all say something about it once we see action being taken, rather than just ‘considering’ things,” he said critically.
Why Discuss Politics?
Russell was finally asked whether the current discussions between the FIA and the drivers are suitable for addressing such issues. During Grand Prix weekends, both parties meet briefly on Fridays for a short briefing. Further, longer discussions are scheduled only a few times a year to provide feedback on race management. “What has changed in the past eighteen months is unprecedented,” Russell responded.
“When the GPDA was established, it wasn’t about politics – we were concerned with safety and improving the sport. Unfortunately, we find ourselves in a time when we are focusing on irrelevant things. We are here to race, we are here to create the best show, with the fastest and safest cars and the best technology. Yet we are talking about fines, penalties, and swearing. So yes, maybe something needs to change. We are certainly open to it.”
